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Yosemite Backpacking with Out in the Wild

A backcountry adventure in the breathtaking high country of Yosemite

Trip Length

5 Days

Intensity

Mild – Moderate

Group Size

8 Persons

Trip Dates

July 18-22, 2023

Activities

Backpacking

Included

Medically-trained, naturalist guides
All transportation in passenger van
Camping fees & backpacking permits
Tent, sleeping pad, and group camping equipment
All meals indicated in itinerary
Park entry fees

Not Included

Gratuity for your guide
Sleeping bag (Available to rent for $50)
Flights to destination

Solidarity Rate: $695

Full Cost Rate: $795

Redistribution Rate: $895

Trip Info

Yosemite National Park is known for its stunning granite formations and roaring waterfalls, but beyond the iconic valley lies 1,200 square miles of open mountain wilderness. Over the course of our trip, we’ll explore the peaks and valleys of Yosemite’s wild and beautiful high country.

Weather

July in California is known to be quite hot, but we’ll be spending a great deal of our trip at elevations about 5,000’ where temperatures can vary greatly.

In general, you should be prepared for warm to hot days. Temperatures at higher elevations will mostly likely be in the 70s with strong sun. Nights are cool with lows possibly dropping into the 40s. Rain is rare in July, but is possible so be sure to bring weather appropriate gear.

Group 

Good Trippers can be any age but most of our travelers are in their 30s – 50s.

We get families, couples and friends, but most of our travelers come solo! We have hiking trips for all abilities, just make sure to review the Intensity section for information about what to expect on your trip.

All public trips are 18+. If you’re traveling with kids, we’d be happy to make any itinerary private! Email info@goodtripadventures.com.

Intensity – Mild to Moderate

Hiking days will usually include about 6 total hours on the trail, covering anywhere from 3-5 miles on the day with weight. This trip includes four days of backcountry hiking, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable being active for most of the day, multiple days in a row. Some hiking experience is recommended. Backpacking experience is not required.

 

Accommodations

  • One night frontcountry camp at Wawona Campground
  • Three nights backcountry camp

Accomodations for Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Flights

If you are flying, please arrive into Fresno Yosemite Airport (FAT) by 12 PM for pick up. If you opt to arrive a day early, we can also pick up at any hotels in a 20 minute radius.

For those driving, you’ll meet your guide in Oakhurst, CA where you can leave your personal vehicle and join the group in the trip van.

Flights for Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Yosemite Backpacking with Out in the Wild Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in California via Fresno International airport for pick up. Aim to arrive by early afternoon to meet the group. The 2 hour drive in Yosemite will take us from open farmland into rugged mountains. We’ll spend the afternoon exploring Mariposa Grove and settling into our frontcountry camp for the night. Tonight, we’ll get to know one another and will review our route and check gear.

Meals: D

Day 2

It’s our first day on the trail! We’ll start our day with a drive into Yosemite Valley this morning where we’ll take some quick views and pick up any last minute gear. From here, we’ll head into the wilderness at Murphy Creek and hike to Polly Dome Lakes.

Our three mile hike will allow us to get used to our pack weight and the trail. The day is spent above 8,000’ altitude as well, so we’ll leave plenty of time for stops as our bodies adjust to the high mountain air. After setting up camp, we can relax by the lakes and take in the alpine sunset.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3

We’ll wake up to the sounds of nature and take down camp before setting off on today’s hike. Our trail today is about 4 miles to Glen Aulin camp through the rolling high country. Once we arrive, we’ll set up our camp and relax. This is our home for two nights, so we can really get cozy!

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4

Today, we’ll leave our heavy packs behind and set out with only day packs for a walk along the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne – the absolutely beautiful trail that follows the roaring Tuolumne River and the granite walls that rise from its banks.

The day’s hike is an out and back so final mileage is flexible, depending how the group feels. Today’s scenery is among the most beautiful in the region. Camp tonight is back at Glen Aulin, where we’ll celebrate our final night on trail.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 5

This morning, we’ll hike back out to the Tuolumne Meadows trailhead – about 4 miles mostly flat or downhill. By now, our packs feel lighter and our feet more sure. After we enjoy some time to celebrate our accomplishments, we’ll head on with our journey.

Meals: B

Yosemite Backpacking with Out in the Wild Packing List

  • Required Gear
    • Backpack (45-60 L recommended)
    • Duffel or suitcase (to be left in the vehicle when backpacking, 1 small suitcase or duffel per person)
    • Sleeping bag (also available to rent), rated to 20 degrees or below
    • Pack cover
    • Headlamp
    • Reusable water bottles or bladders (3L total capacity)
  • Recommended Gear and personal items 
      • Hiking poles
      • Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional, recommended if renting)
      • Camping pillow
      • Sunscreen
      • Earplugs
      • Insect repellent
      • Toiletries (please choose biodegradable and scent-free items)
      • Small, personal first aid kit (including blister treatment)
      • Small, quick dry towel
      • Personal plate, mug, and utensils (your guide will have these items if you don’t have your own)
    • Required Clothing
        • Warm jacket (down, puffy, fleece)
        • Rain jacket or shell
        • Rain pants
        • Breathable wicking base layers
        • Lightweight hiking pants
        • Warm clothes to sleep in
        • Warm hat
        • Light gloves
        • Sun hat with a brim
        • Wool socks (1 pair per day of trip)
        • Hiking boots
        • Sunglasses

      Recommended Clothing

          • Buff or neck scarf
          • Comfortable clothes for camp
          • Sandals or camp shoes
          • Clothes for dinner on final night

    Packing list for Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip

    Yosemite Backpacking with Out in the Wild

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